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A Relaxing Hinterland Escape Just 90 Minutes from Brisbane
Looking for a peaceful weekend away from Brisbane? The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is close enough for a two-night escape, yet feels a world away from the city.
Stay at Mapleton Springs and spend your weekend exploring waterfalls, rainforest walks and hinterland villages, with plenty of time left to relax by the infinity pool, soak in the outdoor hot tub or unwind in the infrared sauna.
Here's my suggested itinerary for a relaxing weekend in the Hinterland.
Friday – Arrive & Unwind
Arrive at Mapleton Springs from 2 pm and settle into your room. Enjoy the valley views, infinity pool, outdoor hot tub or infrared sauna. From April to September, relax beside the open wood fire in the guest lounge.
Rachel's tip: Head to Mapleton or Montville for dinner, or order a takeaway pizza from Bella Vista in Mapleton and enjoy it on your private balcony. Some Montville restaurants also offer a courtesy bus to and from Mapleton Springs – check when booking.
Saturday – Waterfalls, Montville & Relaxation
Start with breakfast in Mapleton, Flaxton or Montville before heading to Kondalilla Falls. Arrive early on weekends when the park can get busy, and bring your swimmers in warmer weather if you'd like to enjoy the rock pool.
Continue to Montville for its shops, galleries, cafés and lunch before returning to Mapleton Springs for an afternoon by the infinity pool, in the outdoor hot tub or infrared sauna.
Rachel's tip: Visit Montville earlier in the day, as many shops begin closing from around 3 pm. For dinner, check whether your chosen Montville restaurant offers a courtesy bus to and from Mapleton Springs.
Sunday – Mapleton Falls, Maleny or Australia Zoo
After checking out, visit Mapleton Falls, just a short drive from Mapleton Springs, before continuing to Maleny for cafés, local shops and a stroll along the boardwalk where you may be lucky enough to spot a platypus.
Alternatively, spend Sunday at Australia Zoo, approximately 40 minutes from Mapleton Springs, before continuing your journey towards Brisbane.
Rachel's tip: Mapleton Falls has beautiful views close to the car park, making it a good option if walking is difficult. In Maleny, allow extra time on weekends for popular spots such as the bakery and Maleny Cheese.
Prefer a Slower Weekend?
You don't have to fit everything in. Swap sightseeing for a late start, a soak in the hot tub or some quiet time enjoying the hinterland views. With Montville, Maleny, Kondalilla Falls, Mapleton Falls and Australia Zoo all within easy driving distance, you can make your weekend as active or relaxed as you like.
Ready for a Weekend in the Hinterland?
Escape Brisbane for a relaxing adults-only weekend at Mapleton Springs.
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